Where is Charlottetown Located?

Charlottetown is the capital of the Canadian province of Prince Edward Island (PEI), located on the south-central part of the island. It is a small city of about 33,000 people, and one of the oldest municipalities in Canada, having been founded in 1765. The city is often referred to as the “Garden of the Gulf” due to its extensive green spaces and beautiful waterfront views. It is well known as the “Birthplace of Confederation”, as it hosted the Charlottetown Conference in 1864, where the Fathers of Confederation discussed the idea of creating a Canadian federation.

Charlottetown is located approximately 168 kilometres (105 miles) east-northeast of Halifax, Nova Scotia on the northern coast of PEI. It is situated on the north shore of Hillsborough Bay, which is a large inlet of the Northumberland Strait. The city is bordered by the townships of Kinkora, Mount Stewart, Sherwood, and Stratford. To the west, it is bordered by UNESCO World Heritage sites – the small seaside villages of Brackley Beach, Cavendish and North Rustico. To the south, Charlottetown is bordered by Cardigan Bay and only a 45 minute drive from bustling Summerside.

Charlottetown’s harbour was first used for trade as early as 1730 and by the late 18th century had become a bustling port. In 1864, Charlottetown hosted the Charlottetown Conference, a pivotal event for Confederation. Following this meeting, PEI was officially admitted as one of four provinces that formed Canada in 1867.

Today, visitors to Charlottetown can learn more about its history by spending time at historic sites such as St. Dunstan’s Basilica, Province House and the PEI Museum and Heritage Village. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities and attractions available in the city, including outdoor recreation such as walking along the waterfront boardwalk, playing a round of golf, or pedaling around town on a rented bike. There are many shops, restaurants and pubs along with several festivals and events throughout the year.

Charlottetown is known for its beauty and charm and continues to be an attractive place to visit and live. The city has all of the amenities one would expect to find in a metropolitan area yet retains its quaint feel with its tree-lined streets, historic buildings and ease of access to other parts of Prince Edward Island. Visitors to Charlottetown will enjoy discovering this unique island city tucked away on a corner of Canada’s eastern seaboard. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Charlottetown is a great destination for those looking for an unforgettable vacation experience. If you’re looking for more information about Prince Edward Island and its capital city Charlottetown, then be sure to explore this informative and official tourism website from Prince Edward Island Tourism.

Insider’s Guide to Charlottetown, PEI

Charlottetown, also known as the Birthplace of Confederation, is the capital city of Prince Edward Island (PEI), located on the southern coast of the Island. Charlottetown is a charming, picturesque city that is full of history, culture, great dining, and scenic beauty. In this insider’s guide to Charlottetown, we will take a closer look at the attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that make Charlottetown an iconic city to visit.

Attractions

Charlottetown boasts a plethora of attractions that showcase its rich history. Here are some top attractions to add to your itinerary:

– Province House National Historic Site: This is the birthplace of Confederation and the seat of Prince Edward Island’s provincial legislature since 1847. Province House is the site where Canada’s founding fathers first plotted our country’s path to nationhood.
– Victoria Row: This pedestrian-only thoroughfare is a beautiful street lined with shops, restaurants, galleries, and businesses. In the summertime, it’s a hub of events, live music, and entertainment.
– Charlottetown Waterfront: The waterfront is a beautiful and bustling area with a boardwalk, marina, restaurants, and shops. Take a stroll and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. You can also take a boat tour to enjoy the scenic views of the city.
– Beaconsfield Historic House: Built-in 1877, this restored Victorian mansion has been designated as a National Historic Site of Canada. The house is open to visitors who can take guided tours to learn about the history of Charlottetown.
– Confederation Centre of the Arts: This cultural center is dedicated to showcasing Canadian visual and performing arts. Here, you can enjoy art exhibitions, theater productions, concerts, and more.

Dining Spots

Charlottetown is famed for its seafood and farm-fresh produce. Here are some top dining spots you should check out:

– The Lobster House: Located in the heart of Historic Charlottetown, The Lobster House, offers seafood dishes, chowder, and cold drinks. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and offers outdoor dining on a beautiful patio.
– Sims Corner Steakhouse & Oyster Bar: This is the perfect spot for an intimate dinner or celebration. The restaurant offers a variety of steak and seafood dishes from fresh lobster to oysters.
– Terre Rouge Craft Kitchen: This restaurant focuses on serving farm-to-table cuisine in a casual atmosphere. The menu changes frequently, based on the availability of fresh local produce.
– Receiver Coffee Co.: This is the perfect spot for coffee lovers. The coffee roastery focuses on quality coffee from sustainable growers. The menu also includes freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and salads.

Cultural Experiences

Charlottetown offers many cultural and artistic experiences. Here are some top suggestions:

– Charlottetown Festival: This annual event is held in the summer and includes a range of shows and performances, including the famous Anne of Green Gables musical.
– St. Dunstan’s Basilica: This historic church is the most prominent landmark in Charlottetown. The church is open to the public and has a rich history that dates back to the early days of the city.
– Confederation Trail: This beautiful trail spans the entire length of Prince Edward Island and passes through Charlottetown. The trail is ideal for cycling, walking, and jogging. It’s a great way to see the city and experience the beauty of nature.
– Victoria Playhouse: This is a community theater that showcases local and visiting talent. The theater is located in Victoria By The Sea, a beautiful seaside village just a short drive outside of Charlottetown.

Local History

Charlottetown has a rich history that you can discover through visiting its historic sites and museums. Here are some top spots where you can learn more about the city’s history:

– The Prince Edward Island Regiment Museum: This military history museum provides a glimpse into PEI’s military history from the colonial period to modern times. The exhibits include artifacts, weapons, equipment, and stories of how Charlottetown played a role in the conflicts of our nation.
– The Eptek Art and Culture Centre: This museum focuses on the art, culture, and history of Prince Edward Island. The exhibits include local art, artifacts, and textiles that showcase the Island’s rich culture.
– The Charlottetown Historic Walking Tour: This self-guided tour is an excellent way to explore the city’s historic sites and streets. The tour highlights the city’s historic buildings, landmarks, and monuments.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Charlottetown is full of hidden gems that many tourists often miss out on, but locals know well. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions to explore in Charlottetown:

– The Hillsborough Farmer’s Market: This farmer’s market is held every Saturday morning and features local producers, art, food, and live music. It’s a great spot to grab some breakfast or brunch, catch up with locals, and pick up some fresh local produce.
– Dalvay By The Sea Beach: This beautiful white sand beach, located just outside Charlottetown, is the perfect spot for a day trip. The beach is relatively secluded and offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
– The Artisans on Main: This art gallery features the works of local artisans. Here, you can find unique handmade items such as pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Charlottetown is a must-visit destination in Canada, and there is plenty to see and do. With this insider’s guide, you’ll be sure to make the most out of your trip to Charlottetown and leave with lasting memories of this fascinating city.